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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM21.832

M21.832

Billable

Other specified acquired deformities of left forearm

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/17/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 M21.832 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other specified acquired deformities of left forearm.

Key Diagnostic Point:

M21.832 refers to acquired deformities of the left forearm that are not classified under more specific codes. These deformities can arise from various causes, including trauma, surgery, or underlying medical conditions that lead to structural changes in the forearm. Common examples include deformities resulting from fractures that have healed improperly, conditions such as Dupuytren's contracture, or post-surgical changes following procedures like tendon repairs. The clinical presentation may include altered bone structure, changes in the range of motion, and functional impairments affecting daily activities. Accurate diagnosis often requires imaging studies, physical examinations, and a thorough patient history to determine the underlying cause of the deformity. Treatment options may vary widely, from conservative management with physical therapy to surgical interventions aimed at correcting the deformity and restoring function.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of potential underlying causes for the deformity
  • Need for detailed documentation of the deformity's origin
  • Differentiation from other similar codes
  • Potential for multiple co-existing conditions

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the deformity's cause
  • Failure to specify the left forearm in documentation
  • Misclassification of the deformity type
  • Lack of supporting clinical evidence for the diagnosis

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed notes on the deformity's origin, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with post-fracture deformities or post-surgical changes.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all relevant imaging and surgical reports are included in the documentation.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive assessments of functional limitations and treatment progress.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients undergoing rehabilitation for acquired deformities affecting mobility.

Billing Considerations

Documenting the impact of the deformity on daily activities and rehabilitation goals.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M21.832 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, M21
  • 832 should be used when the specific acquired deformity of the left forearm does not fall under more specific codes
  • Coders must ensure that the documentation supports the diagnosis and that the deformity is acquired rather than congenital

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M21.832 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

25447CPT Code

Osteotomy, forearm

Clinical Scenario

Used for surgical correction of acquired deformities.

Documentation Requirements

Surgical notes detailing the procedure and indications.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic documentation must include pre-operative assessments and post-operative follow-ups.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding acquired deformities, enabling better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation. M21.832 provides a clear framework for documenting specific deformities of the left forearm, which was less defined in ICD-9.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding acquired deformities, enabling better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation. M21.832 provides a clear framework for documenting specific deformities of the left forearm, which was less defined in ICD-9.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding acquired deformities, enabling better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation. M21.832 provides a clear framework for documenting specific deformities of the left forearm, which was less defined in ICD-9.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of conditions are classified under M21.832?

M21.832 includes acquired deformities of the left forearm that are not classified under more specific codes, such as malunions, post-surgical deformities, and conditions like Dupuytren's contracture.